With all the discussion about Tony Franklin and his new spread offense, the defense barely garnered a mention during Auburn's five bowl practices.

But you won't hear any complaints from defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, who spent much of the practice time getting back to basics.

"The big thing in bowl practice, because we had so much time off since the Alabama game, is to get back to fundamentals and technique," said Muschamp. "We took the first couple of days really honed in on fundamentals and technique then started on Clemson the last three, so we've got some good preparation going and most of the gameplan in.

"When we get to Atlanta, we'll finish it with two good fundamental practices against Clemson, then have a couple of good days to brush up on everything."

Muschamp said the fundamental work was especially important for all the young players that played this fall and don't have the luxury of a couple of spring practices, where fundamentals and techniques are a mainstay, under their belts.